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Roberts not worried about playing time

Roberts not worried about playing time

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Ryan Roberts

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PHOENIX -- Even though D-backs third baseman Ryan Roberts is coming off starts on Wednesday and Thursday, the 31-year-old admitted he is struggling to find consistency in his game through inconsistent playing time.

"Playing every day helps you not take an 0-for game as bad because you can go out the next day," Roberts said. "The chances to get into a rhythm are easier and the chances to ride out of a slump are better. It's just more comforting knowing."

Before being in the lineup the last two games in Cincinnati, Roberts hadn't started back-to-back days since June 29 and 30. Geoff Blum and Willie Bloomquist both saw time at third base, limiting Roberts' at-bats.

Ryan Wheeler, who was selected from Triple-A Reno on Friday when the club released Blum, got the start at third in the series opener against the Astros.

But despite not playing every day, Roberts has put together a successful month at the plate. In 25 July at-bats entering Friday, Roberts has totaled eight hits and four walks, good enough for a .320 average and .414 on-base percentage.

"I'm trying to get better and do what I can to get a chance and produce," Roberts said. "I don't pay any attention to it; it is what it is."

Going forward, the amount of playing time Roberts receives is up in the air, but D-backs manager Kirk Gibson still sees him as an integral part of the team.

"I don't have an answer for you. I try to rotate them the best I can," Gibson said. "It could be a good thing to have the depth we do. The guys will be prepared to play and play with energy when called on."